Apparatus for Converting Motion

ABSTRACT

An assembly for converting motion comprises a first arm and a second arm rotatable about first and second spaced apart fixed pivots; a third arm pivotably connected the second arm at a position spaced apart from the second fixed pivot; a first connecting arm extending between and pivotably connected to the first arm and the third arm; a second connecting arm extending between and pivotably connected to the first arm and the second arm; and a third connecting arm extending between and pivotably connected to the first arm and the third arm. The assembly may be used to move and support components of a building.

The present invention relates to an apparatus for converting motion. In one aspect, the apparatus may be used to producing a straight line motion, in particular an apparatus for producing motion of a component in a straight line generated by the rotational movement of a second component or the motion of the second component about a pivot. In a further aspect, the apparatus may be used to both displace and rotate a first component with respect to a second component.

Mechanisms for converting motion, in particular producing a straight line motion from a rotational motion are known in the art. Such straight line mechanisms may be characterised by comprising a first member rotatable about an axis passing through the member and a second member linked to or associated with the first member, the arrangement being such that rotational movement of the first member about the axis results in a straight line movement of the second member.

Examples of early mechanisms for producing a straight line motion include the straight line mechanism design by James Watt, comprising a series of three levers in end-to-end configuration, with movement of the two end levers about pivots at their free ends causing the middle lever to follow a close approximation to a straight line over a portion of its movement. A related linkage comprising three levers, with the middle lever constrained to follow a straight line was proposed by Tchebicheff. The Peaucellier-Lipkin inversor consists of an arrangement of seven levers and provides a conversion of circular motion into linear motion and vice versa. A related four-lever mechanism was proposed by Hart. A linear converter, known as the half beam mechanism, in which a first linear motion is converted to a second linear motion perpendicular to the first, was designed by Scott Russell.

An analysis of a variety of multi-lever, straight line linkages is provided by Dijksman, E. A. ‘Advances in Robot Kinematics and Computationed Geometry’, pages 411 to 420, [1994] Kluwer Academic Publishers.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,248,103 discloses a straight line mechanism, in particular a mechanism of the so-called ‘conchoid’ type. There is disclosed a linkage mechanism for an industrial manipulator comprising at least two of the said straight line mechanisms.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,400,985 concerns a straight line link mechanism, comprising a plurality of pivotally connected links. The links are connected between a support and a controlled member. As one of the links is moved in a 360° arc, the controlled member alternately moves in a first direction along a linear path and thereafter in the opposite direction along a curved path. The weight of the controlled member may be balanced by the use of a counter weight, to provide a lifting mechanism. A cam may be employed to control the motion of the controlled member.

More recently, U.S. Pat. No. 4,747,353 discloses a straight line motion mechanism formed from a pair linkage mechanisms arranged in a parallelogram in combination with a motion control means. The motion control means interconnects the two linkage mechanisms and provide a uniform angular displacement of each linkage mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,102,290 concerns a transfer device for transferring a workpiece from a first location to a second location. The workpiece is moved in a trochoidal arc by means of a pickup arm mounted to roll along a flat surface.

A straight line mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,237,887. The mechanism comprises a static base and a platform supported by first and second arm assemblies. Each of the first and second arm assemblies comprises portions pivotally connected to the static base. The arrangement of the pivoted arm portions of each arm assembly is such that the platform is constrained to move in a straight line, as the portions of the arms move about their respective pivot connections.

Still more recently, WO 97/33725 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two first links connected to a first element by a hinged connection so as to form a four-hinge system and pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the first element. At least two second links are connected to the second element so as to form a four-hinge system and to pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the second element. The two four-hinge systems provided by the first and second links are coupled in series to allow relative motion of the first and second elements.

WO 99/14018 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two link devices coupled between the elements, each comprising two mutually articulated link units. A first link unit is connected to first, moveable element. The second of the link units is connected to the second, static element. Power applied to the link units causes the first element to move relative to the second.

A mechanical linkage is described and shown in U.S. Pat. No. 2,506,151. The linkage comprises a plurality of interconnected levers. The linkage provides for movement of one member with respect to a fixed member. The linkage is specifically described and shown for use in providing movement for components of a chair, in particular to allow for movement of the seat of the chair in a rearwardly-downwardly and forwardly-upwardly direction. The linkage is indicated in U.S. Pat. No. 2,506,151 to provide for movement of the moveable member in a straight path with respect to the fixed member.

There is a need for an improved assembly for providing a straight line motion, in particular for providing an element moveable in a straight line in response to a rotational motion allowing the assembly to mounted and moveable about a pivot point. It would be most advantageous if the assembly could be arranged in a compact form, thereby occupying only a small volume of space.

GB 2514175 discloses an apparatus for converting motion and a building assembly comprising the same.

An expandable building assembly comprising a rotating roof portion, operated by way of an assembly for converting motion, is disclosed in GB 2505676.

EP 0158722 discloses a device for the generation of rectilinear movements in manipulator devices.

WO 2013/182834 discloses an assembly for converting motion. The assembly comprises a plurality of arms, in particular a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon; and a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm at a third position thereon. The assembly finds use in a range of applications, for example supporting and moving components of a building. In one embodiment described and shown in WO 2013/182834, the assembly is employed in deploying a solar panel array.

A modification to the assembly of WO 2013/182834 has now been found. This new assembly is also for converting a rotary motion into a straight line motion and relies upon an assembly of levers or arms having pivoted connections therebetween. However, the new assembly provides increased rigidity and stability of the assembly of WO 2013/182834, in turn increasing the range of uses of the assembly, thereby significantly increasing the utility of the earlier assembly.

According to the present invention, there is provided an assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising:

a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot;

a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot;

a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm;

a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon;

a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm; and

a third connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the third connecting arm pivotably connected to a fourth position on the first arm disposed between the second and third positions on the first arm and pivotably connected to the third arm at a third position thereon disposed between the first and second positions thereon.

In operation of the assembly, the first arm rotates about the first fixed pivot, the second arm rotates about the second fixed pivot and the third arm moves. In particular, in use of the assembly the third arm is caused to move such that a point on the third arm (herein referred to as ‘the said point’) spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the said point and the first position moves in a straight line. Thus, rotational motion of the first arm and the second arm about their respective fixed pivots results in a straight line motion of the said point on the third arm. In this respect, it is to be noted that the said point on the third arm referred to traces a line that is substantially straight, that is represents a very close approximation to a straight line. In particular, the path followed by the said point may be characterised as being a very flat sine wave, that is a sine wave of high wavelength and very low amplitude.

The assembly of the present invention provides a number of significant advantages, in particular compared with the linkages and mechanisms of the prior art, such as those discussed above. First, in preferred embodiments of the assembly, the said point on the third arm moves in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. This is a particularly advantageous arrangement, for example when employing the assembly in a building to provide movement of one portion of the building with respect to another, such as moving a portion of the building laterally from a fixed building structure.

Second, the assembly of the present invention may be arranged such that the arms of the assembly are accommodated one within the other in a very compact configuration, for example all lying between the first and second fixed pivots. This compactness is a significant advantage of the assembly of this invention.

Further, the said point on the third arm may be arranged to always be the forwardmost point of the assembly in the direction of motion of the said point. This arrangement provides significant advantages over known assemblies, where the point moving in a straight line is contained within or otherwise surrounded by other components of the assembly.

The point on the third arm referred to above is spaced from the first position on the third arm, with the second and third positions on the third arm lying between the said point and the first position. The location of the said point will depend upon the length of the arms of the device and the positions of their interconnections. In one preferred embodiment, the said point is arranged to be at a distal location on the third arm, that is distal from the first, second and third positions on the third arm, for example with the said point being located at the free end of the third arm or in an end portion at the free end of the arm.

The extent of the straight line motion of the said point on the third arm varies according the precise positioning of the connections between the arms. For example, in one embodiment, it has been found that this close approximation to a straight line motion by the said point on the third arm occurs over a distance that is up to 85% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. Further embodiments provide motion of the said point on the third arm that follows a close approximation to a straight line for a distance up to or exceeding 100% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. References herein to a motion of the said point on the third arm in a ‘straight line’ are references to this movement.

As noted, the said point on the third arm moves in a pattern that is a close approximation to a straight line. The deviation of the movement of the said point from a straight line may be exemplified by the following:

In an embodiment of the assembly in which the distance between the first fixed pivot and the second fixed pivot is 3250 mm, the said point on the third arm describes an approximate straight line of 2750 mm in length. In particular, the said point moves between a first or retracted position and a second or extended position. In this respect, references to motion of the said point are with respect to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, with the retracted position being at or close to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots and the retracted position being distant therefrom. As noted, the said point on the third arm moves between the retracted position and the extended position, with the line joining the retracted and extended positions being a straight line perpendicular to the line extending between the first and second pivots. However, in moving between the retracted and extended positions, the said point follows a sine wave having a maximum deviation from the straight line of 8 mm. This deviation represents a deviation of just 0.25% of the distance travelled by the said point between the retracted and extended positions and is generally insignificant in the context of most if not all practical applications of the assembly.

In another embodiment of the assembly in which the distance between the first fixed pivot and the second fixed pivot is 3250 mm, the said point on the third arm describes an approximate straight line of 3254 mm in length. In this embodiment, the deviation of the said point moves in a sine wave having a maximum deviation from a straight line of just 31.4 mm, that is just 0.96% of the distance travelled by the said point.

The arrangement of the assembly of the present invention may be varied depending upon the requirements. For example, the assembly may be arranged to provide a longer straight line movement of the said point on the third arm with a slightly greater deviation from a straight line. Alternatively, the assembly may be arranged to provide a shorter straight line movement of the said point, with the path traced by the said point being a closer approximation to a straight line with less deviation.

When moving between the retracted and the extended positions, the said point on the third arm follows a substantially straight line. Other points on the third arm follow a respective arc.

It has been found that the aforementioned assembly provides a number of significant advantages. First, the point of the assembly that traces a straight line moves away from the mechanism, that is leads the mechanism in the direction of motion of the said point. As noted, the assembly may be considered to be movable from a retracted position to an extended position, with a point on the third arm moving in a straight line between the retracted and extended positions. The point on the third arm moves in a straight line away from the retracted position to the extended position. In particular, the assembly is such that, in operation, a point on the third arm traces a straight line that extends away from the first and second fixed pivot points, in particular from the line joining the first and second pivot points.

More particularly, in many embodiments, the straight line path followed by the said point on the third arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second pivot points. This is an advantage over assemblies of the prior art and allows the assembly of the present invention to be more versatile and have a wider range of applications. In particular, it allows the assembly to be placed or mounted on a plane and to have all motion of the components confined to one side of the plane. Thus, for example, the assembly may be used on an exterior surface of a construction, such as a building or the like, and all components move from the retracted to the extended positions on the exterior, without encroaching on or requiring space on the interior side of the plane.

Further, the arms of the assembly may be constructed such that the arms may be accommodated one within another. The components of the assembly may be arranged such that, when in the retracted position, the third arm and first and second connecting arms are accommodated within or adjacent the first and second arms, thereby providing for a particularly compact assembly when in the retracted position.

The assembly has been defined hereinbefore by reference to a plurality of arms. It is to be understood that the term ‘arm’ is used as a general reference to any component that may be connected as hereinbefore described and/or moved about a fixed pivot. Accordingly, the term ‘arm’ is to be understood as being a reference to any such component, regardless of shape or configuration.

As noted above, the assembly of the present invention provides a motion of the said point on the third arm that follows a straight line over a specific extent of its movement. The close approximation of the movement of the said point on the third arm to a straight line between the retracted and extended positions makes the assembly of the present invention particularly useful as a straight line converter, that is able to convert a rotational movement of the first and/or second arms about the first and second fixed pivots respectively, into a straight line motion of the said point on the third arm.

However, the operation of the assembly is not limited to this extent of movement of the third arm. Rather, continued movement of the assembly beyond the extended position to a super-extended position causes the third arm to move to a position that is at an angle to and displaced from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, with the said point on the third arm following an arcuate path into the super-extended position. This movement of the third arm away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots with simultaneous rotation of the third arm, once beyond the extended position, is also particularly useful, for example in deploying items connected to the third arm away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. This is a further advantageous aspect of the assembly of the present invention, in particular compared with assemblies of the prior art, which have only limited movement of the components.

As noted, operation of the assembly results in motion of the third arm. It is to be understood that the assembly may be used to convert a rotational motion of the first or second arms about the first or second fixed pivots into a motion of the said point on the third arm, that is by having drive to the assembly provided at the first or second arms. Alternatively, the assembly may be used to convert a motion of the third arm into a rotational motion of the first and second arms, that is by having drive to the assembly applied at the third arm.

As noted above, the assembly of the present invention is mounted to fixed pivots. In particular, the first and second arms are mounted for rotation about respective first and second fixed pivots. The first and second fixed pivots are points at which the assembly is mounted to a supporting structure. For example, the supporting structure may comprise a frame or other arrangement of support members having the first and second fixed pivots thereon. In other embodiments, the assembly is mounted to a fixed structure, for example a building, with the first and second fixed pivots being provided thereon.

As noted above, the assembly moves in a plane containing the first and second fixed pivots. The first and second fixed pivots may each be arranged on the fixed structure or supporting structure at a suitable position to provide the movement of the assembly in the required direction and in the required plane. The assembly may be arranged to move in any plane. For example, the first and second fixed pivots may be arranged to have the assembly move in a vertical plane. Similarly, the fixed pivots may be arranged to provide movement of the third arm in the required direction, in particular movement of the said point on the third arm. In many embodiments, the said point on the third arm moves substantially horizontally or substantially vertically. For example, for moving many components or structure, the said point on the third arm moves horizontally away from or towards the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.

In one preferred arrangement finding many applications, the first and second fixed pivots are arranged on a substantially vertical line. In this case, the assembly moves in a substantially vertical plane. Also, in this case, the said point on the third arm moves horizontally.

The first fixed pivot may be arranged to be higher or lower than the second fixed pivot. Alternatively, the fixed pivots may be arranged to be at the same height. For example, with the first and second fixed pivots arranged on a substantially vertical line, the first fixed pivot may be above the second fixed or vice versa.

The assembly of the present invention comprises a first arm. The first arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the first arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The first arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the arm to a first fixed pivot. The pivotable connection at the first position may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arm about which the arm is free to move. The first position may be in any suitable location on the arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the arm.

The first arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the first arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly.

The first position on the first arm may be at any suitable location thereon. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent the first end of the first arm.

The assembly further comprises a second arm. The second arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The second arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the second arm to a second fixed pivot. The pivotable connection at the first position may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arm about which the arm is free to move. The first position may be in any suitable location on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the second arm.

The second arm is moved about the second fixed pivot under the action of either movement of the first arm or the third arm.

The second arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the second arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly. The assembly of the present invention is particularly advantageous when the second arm operates as a driving arm.

The assembly further comprises a third arm. The third arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the third arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The third arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the third arm to the second arm. The pivotable connection between the second and third arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The third arm is pivotably connected to the second arm at a first position on the third arm and a second position on the second arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the third arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the third arm.

The second position on the second arm is spaced apart from the first position on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the second arm.

In operation of the assembly, as noted above, the third arm has a point thereon that follows the path of a straight line when the assembly is moved between the retracted and extended positions. This point on the third arm is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm, that is the position on the third arm at which the second and third arms are pivotably connected together. The third arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the third arm to move, such that the said point on the third arm follows the straight line path between the retracted and extended positions. Alternatively, the third arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the third arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly to result in movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot. For example, application of a straight line force to the said point on the third arm between the retracted and extended positions results in rotational movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot.

The distance between the first and second fixed pivots and the lengths of the first, second and third arms may be selected according to the desired movement of the components to be achieved and the particular application of the assembly.

However, generally, the ratio of the length of the first arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the first arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The first arm is preferably no longer than, more preferably shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the first arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. The ratio of the length of the first arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications.

The ratio of the length of the second arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the second arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The second arm is preferably shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the second arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. The ratio of the length of the second arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications.

The length of the second arm is preferably selected to be as long as possible, within the constraints of the other components of the assembly and the desired motion. In this way, the arc through which the second position on the second arm moves about the second fixed pivot has as large a radius as possible. This facilitates the positioning of the second connecting arm.

The second arm may be longer or shorter than the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first and second arms are of the same length.

Taking the length of the third arm to be the distance between the first position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm, the length of the third arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the connecting arms. The length of the third arm is preferably less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the third arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the length of the third arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the third arm has a length of about 0.975. In alternative embodiments, the length of the third arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second and third arms are the same length.

The assembly further comprises a first connecting arm. The first connecting arm extends between the first arm and the third arm. The first connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the first connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The first connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and third arms. The pivotable connections between the first connecting arm and each of the first and third arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivotable connections may be at any suitable location on the first connecting arm. In one preferred embodiment, the pivotable connection between the first connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the first connecting arm and/or the pivotable connection between the first connecting arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first connecting arm.

The first connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a second position on the first arm. The second position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm.

The first connecting arm is further connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm, which second position is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm.

The first connecting arm may have any suitable length. For example, the length of the first connecting arm is the distance between the positions on the first and third arms between which the first connecting arm extends. Alternatively, the first connecting arm may extend beyond the one or both of the first and third arms, for example beyond the third arm in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.

The second position on the third arm, at which the first connecting arm is connected, may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the first connecting arm acts to provide support for the third arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the third arm. The requirement for the third arm to be supported in this manner by the first connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the second position on the third arm. Second, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the first connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the first connecting arm increases.

The second position on the third arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the first position and the second position on the third arm and the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm may be from 0.1 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.2 to 0.8, still more preferably from 0.3 to 0.7, in particular from 0.35 to 0.6. A preferred ratio is from 0.4 to 0.55. The ratio of the distance between the first position and the second position on the third arm and the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm is preferably less than 0.75, more preferably less than 0.65, more preferably less than 0.55. A ratio of up to 0.5 has been found to be particularly suitable. One particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly has the ratio of the distance between the first position and the second position on the third arm and the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm about 0.41 to about 0.47.

The assembly further comprises a second connecting arm. The second connecting arm extends between the first arm and the second arm. The second connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The second connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and second arms. The pivotable connections between the second connecting arm and each of the first and second arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivotable connections may be at any suitable location on the second connecting arm. In one preferred embodiment, the pivotable connection between the second connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the first connecting arm and/or the pivotable connection between the second connecting arm and the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the second connecting arm.

The second connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a third position on the first arm, which third position is spaced apart from and between both the first and second positions on the first arm.

The third position on the first arm, at which the second connecting arm is connected, may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the second connecting arm acts to provide support for the first arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the first arm. The requirement for the first arm to be supported in this manner by the second connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the third position on the first arm. Second, as with the first connecting arm, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the second connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the second connecting arm increases.

The third position on the first arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the first arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the first arm may be from 0.1 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.2 to 0.8, still more preferably from 0.3 to 0.7, in particular from 0.4 to 0.6. A preferred ratio is from 0.4 to 0.55. The ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the first arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the first arm is preferably less than 0.75, more preferably less than 0.65, more preferably less than 0.55. A ratio of up to 0.5 has been found to be particularly suitable. One particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly has the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the first arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the first arm about 0.4 to 0.5.

The second connecting arm is further connected to the second arm at a third position on the second arm. In one embodiment of the assembly, the third position is spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the second arm. In an alternative embodiment, the third position on the second arm coincides with the second position on the second arm, such that the second connecting arm is connected to both the second and third arms. This arrangement has the advantage of being particularly compact.

The third position on the second arm is at or spaced from the second position on the second arm and may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the second arm may be from 0.8 to 1.0, more preferably from 0.85 to 1.0, still more preferably from 0.875 to 1.0, in particular from 0.9 to 1.0. A preferred ratio is from 0.925 to 1.0. One particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly has the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the second arm about 0.95 to 1.0.

The second connecting arm may have any suitable length. Its length is preferably the distance between the positions on the first and second arms between which the second connecting arm extends.

The assembly further comprises a third connecting arm. The third connecting arm extends between the first arm and the third arm. The second connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The second connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and third arms. The pivotable connections between the second connecting arm and each of the first and third arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivotable connections may be at any suitable location on the third connecting arm. In one preferred embodiment, the pivotable connection between the third connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the third connecting arm and/or the pivotable connection between the third connecting arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the second end of the third connecting arm.

The third connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm, which fourth position is spaced apart from and between both the second and third positions on the first arm.

The fourth position on the first arm, at which the third connecting arm is connected, may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the third connecting arm acts to provide support for the first arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the first arm. The requirement for the first arm to be supported in this manner by the third connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the fourth position on the first arm. Second, as with the first and second connecting arms, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the third connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the third connecting arm increases.

The fourth position on the first arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the fourth position and the second position on the first arm and the distance between the fourth position and the third position on the first arm may be from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5, still more preferably from 0.9 to 1.1. A preferred ratio is 1.0, that is the fourth position is equidistant from the second and third positions on the first arm.

The third connecting arm is further connected to the third arm at a third position on the third arm. The third position on the third arm is spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the third arm. In this way, the third connecting arm is disposed between the first and second connecting arms.

The third position on the third arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the third position and the first position on the third arm and the distance between the third position and the second position on the third arm may be from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5, still more preferably from 0.9 to 1.1. A preferred ratio is 1.0, that is the third position is equidistant from the first and second positions on the first arm.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the third connecting arm is spaced equidistantly from the first and second connecting arms.

The third connecting arm may have any suitable length. Its length may be the distance between the positions on the first and third arms between which the second connecting arm extends.

The arms of the assembly of the present invention may consist essentially of the first, second and third arms and first, second and third connecting arms described hereinbefore. Alternatively, the assembly may comprise one or more further arms connected to the aforementioned arms. Further arms may be added, for example, to provide additional support to one or more components being moved by the assembly and connected thereto.

In one preferred embodiment, the assembly further comprises a fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the first arm at a fifth position on the first arm.

The fourth arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the fourth arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The fourth arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the fourth arm to the first arm at a second position on the first arm. The pivotable connection between the first and fourth arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The fourth arm is pivotably connected to the first arm at a first position on the fourth arm and a fifth position on the first arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the fourth arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the fourth arm, in particular the end of the fourth arm that is proximal to the first and second fixed pivots.

The fifth position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the fifth position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm, that is the end distal of the first fixed pivot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fifth position on the first arm coincides with the second position on the first arm, that is the fourth arm is connected to the first arm at the same position as the first connecting arm.

The fourth arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the fourth arm to move. Alternatively, the fourth arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the fourth arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly to result in movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot and the second arm about the second fixed pivot.

The fourth arm may connected to an object to be moved relative to the first and second fixed pivots. The connection between the fourth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, the end of the fourth arm that is distal of the first and second fixed pivots. It has been found that when the fourth arm is connected to the object to be moved there is a position on the fourth arm that moves in a substantially straight line, corresponding to the movement of the said point on the third arm. The connection between the fourth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, this position on the fourth arm.

Taking the length of the fourth arm to be the distance between the first position on the fourth arm and the said point on the fourth arm, the length of the fourth arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the connecting arms. The length of the fourth arm is preferably less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the fourth arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the length of the fourth arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the third arm has a length of about 0.975. In alternative embodiments, the length of the fourth arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. Preferably, the length of the fourth arm is the same as the length of the third arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second, third and fourth arms are the same length.

In one embodiment, both the third arm and the fourth arm are connected to the same object to be moved, most preferably with both arms connected to the object at the said point on each of the third and fourth arm.

As noted above, the assembly may comprise additional arms. Such additional arms may be rigidly connected to one of the aforementioned arms of the assembly or may be pivotally connected to an aforementioned arm.

As described above, the inclusion of the third connecting arm in the assembly of the present invention provides the assembly with greater rigidity, in particular when in the extended position, especially when the assembly is used in a vertical orientation, that is with the arms of the assembly moving in a vertical plane, and the first and second fixed pivots arranged on a vertical line.

Another approach to increasing the rigidity and strength of the assembly in the extended position has also been found. As will be appreciated, in an extended position, the second arm crosses the first arm on one side thereof or, depending upon the construction of the arms, on both sides. It has been found that the rigidity and strength of the assembly when in the required extended position can be significantly increased by providing a coupling mechanism between the first and second arms in the extended position. Such a coupling mechanism may advantageously be included in the assembly of the present invention described above. However, the coupling mechanism may also be used to improve the known assemblies, in particular the assembly of WO 2013/182834.

More generally, depending upon the embodiment, the assembly may have one or more pairs of arms that cross when in the extended position. It has been found to be particularly advantageous to couple together the arms of one or more of the pairs of crossing arms in the extended position.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising:

a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot;

a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot;

a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm;

a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon; and

a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm;

the assembly being moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, in the extended position the assembly having a pair of arms crossing each other, the assembly further comprising a coupling mechanism to couple the crossing arms together when in the extended position.

As noted above, coupling together the arms of a pair of crossing arms in the extended position provides significantly increased strength and rigidity to the assembly. This in turn increases the load bearing capacity of the assembly in the extended position.

In this respect, the term ‘coupling’ as used herein is a reference to one arm being connected to the another arm such that movement of the arms, and hence the assembly, beyond the required extended position is prevented. The arms of the pair of crossing arms may be arranged to couple in any extended position, as required by the duty being performed by the assembly. Preferably, the arms of the pair of crossing arms are arranged to be coupled by the coupling mechanism when the assembly is in the extended position in which the said point on the third arm is at the end of its path of straight line movement, described above.

The coupling mechanism couples the two arms of a pair of crossing arms together, to prevent further extension of the assembly, as described above. Preferably, the coupling mechanism acts to couple the arms of the crossing pair at or in the region of the position on the arms at which they cross in the extended position.

Any suitable form of coupling mechanism may be employed. Preferably, to allow the assembly to be moved from the extended position into the retracted position, the coupling mechanism is releasable. In this respect, the term ‘releasable’ is that the coupling mechanism allows for the arms of the pair of crossing arms to be decoupled, to allow the assembly to move from the extended position towards the retracted position. The coupling mechanism may be decoupled manually, that is require an operator to release the coupling mechanism. Alternatively, and more preferably, the coupling mechanism is arranged to couple the arms together so as to prevent further movement beyond the required extended position, but automatically release or freely allow movement in the reverse direction towards the retracted position.

In one preferred embodiment, the coupling mechanism comprises a first coupling member on one arm of the pair of crossing arms and a second coupling member on the other arm of the pair of arms. With the assembly in the extended position, the first and second coupling members engage to couple the respective arms together. The first and second coupling members are preferably disposed on their respective arms at or in the region of the position at which the arms cross when in the extended position.

The first and second coupling mechanisms may have any suitable form. In one embodiment, one of the first and second coupling members is arranged to be received within the other of the first and second coupling members. For example, one of the coupling members may be a pin and the other coupling member may comprise a receptacle for receiving the pin in the extended position. For example, the receptacle may be provided by forming the coupling member with a C- U- or J-shaped portion for receiving the pin.

In the case of an assembly as described above, the first and second arms will cross when in the extended position. Accordingly, in one embodiment, a coupling mechanism is provided to couple the first and second arms together when in the required extended position.

A similar coupling mechanism may be added to other arms of the assembly where those arms cross one another in the extended position. In particular, in the embodiments in which the assembly comprises a fourth arm, as described above, the fourth arm may cross on one or both sides the third arm in the extended position. A coupling mechanism as described above may be provided between the third and fourth arms, either as an alternative to coupling the first and second arms or, more preferably, in addition thereto.

Relative movement of the components of the assembly may be limited or restricted, for example to limit the movement of the third arm such that the motion of the said point is confined to a straight line between the retracted and extended positions. Suitable means for limiting the relative movement of components of the assembly include a flexible tie or tether extending between two of the arms and connecting arms. In one embodiment, a flexible tie or tether extends between the first arm and the third arm, in particular between a point on the first arm between the first and third positions thereon and the first position on the third arm. One preferred form for the flexible tie comprises a plurality of hingedly connected arms, components or assemblies moveable between a folded condition when the assembly is in the retracted position and a fully extended condition in the extended position. An analogous arrangement may be provided with the fourth arm, in embodiments comprising a fourth arm as described above, to limit the movement of the assembly.

In one embodiment, the limiting of the movement of the assembly is provided by one or more components being moved by the assembly between the retracted position and the extended position. In other words, the component being moved itself limits the further movement of the assembly when the component has reached its extended position and been fully deployed.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly of the present invention, the lengths of the first, second and third arms, and first, second and third connecting arms are selected in accordance with the above criteria and to fold up when in the retracted position to lie between or substantially between the first and second fixed pivots. It is a particular advantage that the assembly can be arranged to be in such a compact form when in the retracted position. In a preferred embodiment, the first, second and third arms and first, second and third connecting arms are formed with portions having ‘I’ and ‘L’ shapes in cross-section, with the portions being arranged to allow the arms to be accommodated within one another when in the retracted position.

Alternatively, or in addition, one or more arms may be formed as arm assemblies, in which each arm assembly comprises a plurality of parallel arm members. The arm members may be spaced apart, with the space between adjacent arm members accommodating one or more other arms of the assembly in one or more positions from the retracted position to the extended position.

It is a further advantage of the assembly of present invention that it is highly scaleable and may be constructed and applied at a wide range of scales to convert motion, as described hereinbefore.

The assembly finds wide applications and uses, in particular by allowing relative movement between a first component and a second component.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly as hereinbefore described is provided between the first component and second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.

One of the first and second components is connected to the third arm of the assembly and/or the fourth arm, in embodiments having a fourth arm. The other of the first and second components provides the first and second fixed pivot points to which the first and second arms are pivotally connected. In this way, movement of the first component with respect to the second component is effected. As noted above, such relative movement may be effected by applying a force to the first arm, the second arm and/or to the third arm of the assembly. The force may be applied directly to one or more arms or indirectly, from one or more drive assemblies.

The assembly comprising the first and second components finds extensive use in providing relative movement between two components. For example, the assembly finds use in moving a first component connected to either of the first or second arms and rotating about the respective first or second fixed pivot and a second component connected to the said point on the third arm and moveable in a linear motion between the retracted and extended positions. Further, the assembly finds use in displacing and rotating a first component connected to the third arm relative to the first or second fixed pivots or the line extending therebetween.

Embodiments of the assembly having a fourth arm, as described above, find particular use in moving one component relative to another component, in particular on a straight line path without rotating one component relative to the other. One component provides the first and second fixed pivots, while the other component is connected to the third and fourth arms, in particular by pivoted connections. For example, two components may be held in a fixed orientation with respect to one another and simply moved apart along a straight line.

In many applications, a plurality of assemblies is employed. In particular, a plurality of assemblies may be employed in a spaced apart relationship on opposing sides of an object to be moved. For example, a first and second assembly may be provided on opposing sides of an object to be moved with the third arms, and fourth arms if present, of two assemblies connected to opposing sides of the object.

Applications of the assembly of the present invention to convert rotational motion to linear motion include the support and movement of building structures relative to one another.

Accordingly, the present invention further provides a building comprising:

a first building portion and a second building portion, the first building portion being moveable relative to the second building portion between a retracted position and an extended position;

wherein relative movement between the first and the second building portions and support of one of the first and second building portions with respect to the other of the first and second building portions are provided by an assembly as hereinbefore described.

The first building portion may be any structure or part of a building, in particular a fixed structure, such as a house, apartment or office building, or a mobile building structure, such as a mobile house, caravan or the like. The second building structure may be any structure or component of the installation that is required to be moved relative to the first building portion between the retracted and extended positions. Examples of such structures include balconies, floor extensions, roof extensions, canopies and the like.

The principles and operation of the assembly of the present invention will be further explained by reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1a is a simplified diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention in a partially extended position;

FIG. 1b is a simplified diagrammatical representation of the assembly of FIG. 1a in an extended position;

FIG. 2a is a simplified diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention in a partially extended position; and

FIG. 2b is a simplified diagrammatical representation of the assembly of FIG. 2a in an extended position.

Turning to FIGS. 1a and 1b , there is shown a diagrammatical representation of an assembly of one embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated as 2. The assembly 2 is shown mounted to a fixed structure at a first fixed pivot 4 and a second fixed pivot 6. The fixed pivots 4, 6 are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another.

A first arm 8 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end to the first fixed pivot 4. A second arm 10 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end to the second fixed pivot 6. A third arm 12 is mounted at a first position at one end by a pivot connection 14 at the second end of the second arm 10.

A first connecting arm 16 is mounted at one end by a pivot connection 18 at a second position on the first arm at the second end of the first arm 8. The second end of the first connecting arm is mounted by a pivot connection 20 to the third arm at a second position on the third arm 12.

A second connecting arm 22 is mounted at one end by a pivot connection 24 to the first arm at a third position on the first arm 8 spaced from both the first and second positions. The second end of the second connecting arm 22 is mounted by the pivot connection 14 to both the second arm 10 and the third arm 12.

A third connecting arm 30 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 32 to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm. The second end of the third connecting arm 30 is attached by a pivot connection 34 to the third arm at a third position on the third arm 12. The pivot connection 32 is located on the first arm 8 between and equidistant from the pivot connections 18 and 24 on the first arm 8. Similarly, the pivot connection 34 is located on the third arm 12 between and equidistant from the pivot connections 14 and 20 on the third arm.

The pivot connections may be formed by any suitable means, for example by pins extending through holes in the arms being pivotally joined.

Movement of the first arm 8 about the first fixed pivot 4 and the second arm 10 about the second fixed pivot 6 causes the third arm 12 to move such that a point A on the third arm moves between a retracted position X and an extended position Y. In moving between the positions X and Y, the point A describes a substantially straight line. Further movement of the first and second arms 8, 10 causes the point A to move beyond the extended position Y and follow an arc indicated by arrow Z.

Each of the first and second arms 8, 10 is provided with a coupling member. The first arm 8 is provided with a pin 40 extending laterally from the arm. The second arm 10 is provided with a J-shaped receiving member 42. The pin 40 and the receiving member 42 are located respectively on the first and second arms 8, 10 where the arms cross in the extended position shown in FIG. 1 b.

In use, with the assembly 2 moving from a retracted position to the extended position shown in FIG. 1b , the first arm 8 and the second arm 10 pivot about the fixed pivots 4 and 6, respectively. As a result, the pin 40 and the receiving member 42 move through respective arcs. As the extended position shown in FIG. 1 is reached, the pin 40 engages with the receiving member 42, preventing further movement of the assembly in the direction of arrow Z, beyond the extended position shown. The engagement of the pin 40 and the receiving member 42 couples the first and second arms 8, 10, such that the assembly is triangulated, thereby increasing the strength and rigidity of the assembly.

When the assembly 2 is moved from the extended position shown in FIG. 1b to the retracted position, that is the assembly is urged towards the fixed pivots 4, 6, the pin 40 disengages from the receiving member 42, allowing the arms of the assembly to move. A lock or latching mechanism may be provided to the coupling mechanism, in order to prevent unwanted movement of the assembly out of the extended position shown.

With the coupling mechanism omitted, the assembly may be moved beyond the extended position shown in FIG. 1b , with the point A on the third arm 12 moving in the direction of the arrow Z.

Turning to FIGS. 2a and 2b , there is shown a diagrammatical representation of an assembly of one embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated as 102. The assembly 102 is shown in an extended position. The assembly 102 is shown mounted to a fixed structure at a first fixed pivot 104 and a second fixed pivot 106. The fixed pivots 104, 106 are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. The fixed pivots 104, 106 are shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b rigidly attached to each other by a support member 108. However, any other rigid member or component may be used to connect the fixed pivots 104, 106.

A first arm 110 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end to the first fixed pivot 104. A second arm 112 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end to the second fixed pivot 106. A third arm 114 is mounted at one end by a pivot connection 116 at the second end of the second arm 112. A fourth arm 118 is mounted at one end by a pivot connection 120 at the second end of the first arm 110.

A first connecting arm 122 is mounted at one end by the pivot connection 120 at the second end of the first arm 110. The second end of the first connecting arm 122 is mounted by a pivot connection 124 to the third arm at a second position on the third arm 114.

A second connecting arm 126 is mounted at one end by a pivot connection 128 to the first arm 110 at a third position on the first arm spaced. The second end of the second connecting arm 126 is mounted by the pivot connection 116 to both the second arm 112 and the third arm 114.

A third connecting arm 130 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 132 to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm 110. The second end of the third connecting arm 130 is attached by a pivot connection 134 to the third arm at a third position on the third arm 114. The pivot connection 132 is located on the first arm 110 between and equidistant from the pivot connections 120 and 12 on the first arm 110. Similarly, the pivot connection 134 is located on the third arm 114 between and equidistant from the pivot connections 116 and 124 on the third arm.

The pivot connections may be formed by any suitable means, for example by pins extending through holes in the arms being pivotally joined.

In use, the third arm 114 and the fourth arm 118 are pivotably connected to an object to be moved. In particular, the third arm 114 is connected to the object by a pivot connection 140 in the distal end of the arm at a position A. Similarly, the fourth arm 118 is connected to the object by a pivot connection 142 in the distal end of the arm at a position G. The third and fourth arms may be connected to any object or component to be moved relative to the fixed pivots 104, 106. The component to be moved is shown in FIG. 2 as a support member 144, by way of example.

Movement of the first arm 110 about the first fixed pivot 104 and the second arm 112 about the second fixed pivot 106 causes the third arm 114 to move such that the point A on the third arm moves between a retracted position and an extended position. In moving between the retracted position and the extended position, the point A on the third arm 114 describes a substantially straight line. Similarly, movement of the first arm 110 about the first fixed pivot 104 and the second arm 112 about the second fixed pivot 106 causes the fourth arm 118 to move such that the point G on the fourth arm moves between a retracted position and an extended position. In moving between the retracted position and the extended position, the point G on the fourth arm 118 describes a substantially straight line.

The support member 144 is moved in a substantially straight line relative to the fixed pivots 104, 106. The support member 144 is held parallel to the line joining the fixed pivots 104, 106 and the support member 108 throughout its motion, in the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2a and 2 b.

As can be seen in FIG. 2b , in the extended position shown, the first arm 110 and second arms 112 cross one another. Similarly, the third arm 114 and the fourth arm 118 cross one another. Each pair of crossing arms is provided with a coupling mechanism 150, comprising a pin and a J-shaped receiving member, as described above and shown in FIG. 1b . In this way, the assembly 102 is triangulated when in the extended position shown. While it is preferred that both pairs of crossing arms are provided with a coupling mechanism 150, as shown, a single coupling mechanism provided for the first and second arms 110, 112 or the third and fourth arms 114, 118 is sufficient to lock the assembly in the extended position. 

1-46. (canceled)
 47. An assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon; a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm; and a third connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the third connecting arm pivotably connected to a fourth position on the first arm disposed between the second and third positions on the first arm and pivotably connected to the third arm at a third position thereon disposed between the first and second positions thereon.
 48. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the length of the first arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is from 0.5 to 2.0.
 49. The assembly according to claim 48, wherein the length of the first arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots.
 50. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the length of the second arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is from 0.5 to 2.0.
 51. The assembly according to claim 50, wherein the length of the second arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots.
 52. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the lengths of the first, second and third arms are substantially the same.
 53. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the first arm.
 54. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the distance between the first position and the second position on the third arm and the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm is from 0.1 to 0.9.
 55. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the first arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the first arm is from 0.1 to 0.9.
 56. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the third position on the second arm coincides with the second position on the second arm, such that the second connecting arm is connected to both the second and third arms.
 57. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm and the distance between the first position and the second position on the second arm is from 0.8 to 1.0.
 58. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the distance between the fourth position and the second position on the first arm and the distance between the fourth position and the third position on the first arm is from 0.5 to 2.0.
 59. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the ratio of the distance between the third position and the first position on the third arm and the distance between the third position and the second position on the third arm is from 0.5 to 2.0.
 60. The assembly according to claim 47, further comprising a fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the first arm at a fifth position on the first arm.
 61. The assembly according to claim 60, wherein the fifth position on the first arm coincides with the second position on the first arm.
 62. The assembly according to claim 60, wherein the length of the fourth arm is the same as the length of the third arm.
 63. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the movement of the third arm is limited to confine the said point on the third arm to move in a straight line.
 64. An assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly for converting motion according to claim 47 is provided between the first component and the second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.
 65. The assembly according to claim 64, wherein the first component is moveable with respect to the second component in a pattern that displaces and rotates the first component with respect to the second component.
 66. A building comprising: a first building portion and a second building portion, the first building portion being moveable relative to the second building portion between a retracted position and an extended position; wherein relative movement between the first and the second building portions and support of one of the first and second building portions with respect to the other of the first and second building portions are provided by an assembly according to claim
 47. 